RV campsites near Pikesville, Maryland provide access to various historic sites and outdoor activities within a 40-mile radius. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter temperatures that occasionally drop below freezing. Many campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 300-600 feet, offering a mix of wooded settings and waterfront opportunities.
What to do
Visit historic Gettysburg: Located about 50 miles from Pikesville, Gettysburg Campground provides an excellent base for exploring the battlefield. "Close to Gettysburg National Park which is about ten minutes away and definitely worth visiting," notes one visitor. The campground is "centrally located with kid friendly activities" and many campers appreciate its strategic position.
Explore Washington DC: Take advantage of transportation options from camping facilities near the capital. "Cherry Hill provides bus transportation to Washington DC attractions," making day trips convenient. "They have a bus stop for metro service to the city, but we took the 20 minute drive," reports one camper who found the location ideal for city exploration.
Enjoy water activities: Waterfront camping spots near Pikesville allow for fishing and boating. At Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, campers report excellent water access. "If you like boating, kayaking or canoeing, this is the place! Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away."
What campers like
Campground amenities: Facilities like Cherry Hill Park offer extensive recreation options. "50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride, gated, on-site camp store," lists one satisfied camper. Another adds that the park has "free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area."
Farm settings: Some nearby RV sites feature unique agricultural settings. Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm combines camping with farm animal interactions. "The main attraction is the animals, but there is also a cute playground for the kids," reports one camper. Another shares, "We enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires."
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise waterfront camping opportunities near Pikesville. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," notes a visitor. Another camper adds, "Some sites you are right on the waters edge. Bathroom was clean, pool was closed...not too many campers but it sure was a nice time."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Beyond the busy seasons mentioned in the existing description, specific campground booking policies vary. At Thousand Trails Circle M, "I'm not a huge fan of the 'go find a site' policy they have, but it worked out fine. I got an amazingly large site with a nice fire pit and picnic table."
Site spacing: Many RV parks in the region have limited space between sites. "The site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage," reports one camper, while others note, "Sites are close but there were all sizes of RVs there, even large class A." Consider requesting end sites if available as they typically offer more space.
Military installation options: Military personnel have access to specialized facilities with unique requirements. "Good time. Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me," shares a visitor at Camp Meade RV Park. These facilities often offer additional security but may have specific entry protocols.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for seasonal activities: When camping with children, look for campgrounds that offer organized events. "We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground," shares a visitor at Circle M. Another adds, "They have themed weekend events, live music, bingo, golf cart parades, and potluck."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds have higher traffic and noise, affecting family sleep. "It was pretty full and everyone seemed to have a golf cart. They were constantly driving past our site. This is the first time I've stayed where there were so many golf carts. It was a bit noisy," notes one family camper. Request sites away from main roads or activity centers for quieter evenings.
Look for inclusive amenities: Check what's included with your site fee to maximize value for families. "The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area," reports one camper at Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Others note playground availability and entertainment options vary significantly between facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV campsites require additional leveling equipment. "Our site was pretty level so that was great," shares one RVer who found a rare exception. Others note, "Many of the sites are on annoying slope where the table/fire pit is not level to the camper." Bring leveling blocks even if sites are advertised as level.
Campground navigation: Several RV parks have complex layouts that can be difficult to navigate. "The roads are very confusing and difficult to navigate," warns one RVer. Another notes, "The park is so large (over 95 acres) that if you are camping with friends make sure you get sites nearby them or else you will need to drive to their site."
Sewer hookup positioning: Check the location of sewer connections before setting up. "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly," reports one RVer. Consider bringing sewer hose supports or slinky-style equipment to manage drainage challenges.
